ACT or SAT for College Admission?
February 21, 2012 | 
Author ACT or SAT for College Admission?
This is the time of year many juniors start thinking about the standardized testing required to get into college. Students need to make the choice between the SAT and ACT, but many people do not know the difference between the two of them.
Here is what they share in common. Both tests take over 3 hours to complete. They are generally administered on Saturday mornings, but can be scheduled at different times because of religious beliefs. Both tests now allow you to send the scores of your choice to the school of your choice. Each test covers Critical Reading and Mathematics.
The ACT has these unique features:
• It is composed of 4 mandatory tests, English, Math, Reading, and Science.
• The writing section is optional.
• Each test is administered as one large section, rather than being broken up.
• The score range on the ACT is from 1 – 36.
• Students scores are averaged together to come up with a composite score.
The SAT has these distinctive characteristics:
• Writing is mandatory; the essay is the first section.
• SAT essays are more abstract and students have 5 less minutes than the ACT.
• There are 3 parts to the SAT; Critical Reading, Math and Writing
• These 3 sections are broken up into two different parts.
• The SAT includes one experimental section for future tests and does not count in your score.
• The SAT math includes 10 grid in responses; the ACT is completely multiple choice.
• The score range on the SAT is 200 – 800, with a maximum score of 2400 on the 3 sections.
• The SAT also administers Subject Tests that are required by higher level universities.
Research shows that large group classes make no profound effect on a student getting a higher score. The most effective strategy to achieve an optimal score is to work one on one with a knowledgeable tutor.
A+ Academic Coaching has been working for years with Juniors on an individualized basis for ACT/SAT preparation. A+ Academic Coaching has a demonstrated record of success on helping students achieve success on the ACT and SAT standardized tests.
To learn more about us, visit us on the web at www.apluscoaching.com.
For more useful tips and articles, subscribe to our newsletter!
Posted in 
Mentoring and Tutoring
Mentoring and Tutoring
The word “mentor” comes from the ancient Greek myth “The Odyssey.” In this tale, Ulysses was guided by a wiser, older man who gave him helpful advice.
There is a strong correlation between positive mentoring and academic performance. Student success can be greatly enhanced when they have access to a trust worthy role model who is genuinely interested in both their academics and personal well being.
A+ Academic Coaching offers a mentoring component to many of our coaching relationships. Our staff is carefully screened so we know they have the utmost integrity. When they bring their passion for working with young people to the individual relationships they create, it can provide tremendous results and significantly better grades.
To learn more about us, visit us on the web at www.apluscoaching.com.
For more useful tips and articles, subscribe to our newsletter!
A New A+ Academic Coaching Location is Opening!
A New A+ Academic Coaching Location is Opening!
There’s excitement in the air at A+ Academic Coaching. We have decided to open an office outside of New Mexico – actually 2,000 miles away! The newest A+ Academic Coaching office will be located in West Hartford Connecticut, and will serve many communities in North Central Connecticut. We have hired two outstanding tutors: one who specializes in math/science and the other who specializes in Humanities (English, Social Studies, Reading, and Writing.) Both have extensive educational experience and are eminently qualified to assist students with the ACT/SAT and college application process.
The greatest compliment we ever receive is a referral from a satisfied client. We know that people in New Mexico know people in Connecticut. A+ is committed to bringing the same quality we provide in the Southwest to New England. Please check out our new website at www.westhartfordtutor.com.
Most importantly, please help us in spreading the word to family, friends and acquaintances you may have back east.
Happy New Year!
Happy Holidays (and a Mini History Lesson!)
Here is a little Holiday history lesson.
Usually in the legendary, mythic personalities that emerge from history are based on a real human being; of course their character often gets exaggerated larger than life. One individual where historical advertising is accurate is Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for the modern day Santa Claus. Nicholas was born in the 3rd century AD to an affluent family and was raised to be a devout member of his faith. As one of the results, he used his inheritance to do charitable works for the sick and the poor. Nicholas had a very special place in his heart for children. He went on to become a priest and then a bishop, continuously gaining more recognition for his benevolence and kindhearted nature.
A+ Academic Coaching wishes you and your families a wonderful (and safe!) holiday season this year!
To learn more about us, visit us on the web at www.apluscoaching.com.
For more useful tips and articles, subscribe to our newsletter!
The Art of Vacation, and How it Impacts Students
The Art of Vacation
Whoever invented the idea of vacation should have copyrighted the idea! It is one of the greatest ideas known to mankind.
Educationally, the importance of vacation cannot be overstated. The reason school boards schedule extended periods of time off is that research has clearly demonstrated the importance of taking a break and rejuvenation.
Vacationing well is an extremely important art. The root of the word “vacation” is to “vacate”, which means to take time away from established routines and daily responsibilities. Mentally and emotionally, students fly better and excel more in the long term when they partake in activities that are fun and frivolous when school is not in session.
With this vacation, make a commitment to do it well! Families and students both benefit when they take a break and refresh their spirits.
For more information about us, visit us on the web at www.apluscoaching.com, or subscribe to our newsletter for more helpful sheets and tips!
Tips for Preparing for Finals
Tips for Preparing for Finals
December is the end of the semester for many students; it is a time of great stress for themselves and their families.
Here are five tips that the staff of A+ Academic Coaching utilizes with its clients.
• Create a study plan. Set aside an hour or two each day and avoid cramming a few days before the test!
• Break subjects into stages. You wouldn’t eat an entire pizza all in one bite; do the same with your subjects. Break it into manageable units.
• Study groups are an effective way to study, but do so in a limited manner and choose your study buddies carefully. Make them times for study, not socializing.
• Go through study guides. Make colored index cards on any material that is unfamiliar. Ask teachers for assistance with anything that is still confusing.
• Sleep! Sleep! Sleep! There is no better preparation for a test, or any stressful situation, than a good night’s sleep.
If you need our help with finals, call our office at 505-888-7643 and reserve your tutoring time today! For more information about us, visit us on the web at www.apluscoaching.com, or subscribe to our newsletter for more helpful sheets and tips!
Procrastinators Beware!
Procrastinators Beware!
The end of the semester often brings a sense of relief to many parents, teachers and students. But for some students – especially procrastinators – it is a time of great stress. There is an old proverb that states, “The early bird gets the worm.” Students who procrastinate do exactly the opposite what the wisdom of this quote states. Then they find themselves with their backs up against the wall.
A+ Academic Coaching and it’s tutors are a strong antidote to the procrastination bug. We show students how to plan out projects in stages, rather than waiting until the last minute. Our coaches help students understand that test taking is a long term process, not an opportunity to cram. Through tutoring and academic coaching, we promote strong study habits, good organizational skills and effective time management.
For more information about us, visit us at www.apluscoaching.com.
Subscribe to our newsletter for more useful tips!
Community Service and Higher Grades: Is there a connection?
Community Service and Higher Grades: Is there a connection?
It is not uncommon for teachers and parents to state that kids who are volunteering for their community actually have higher grades. Is this statement true? Or is it a myth?
Educational research actually demonstrates that students who are involved in meaningful activities- extracurricular, athletic, and community service- actually average half to a full grade higher in their overall GPA. The reasons are pretty evident. Students who are well connected socially and actively involved have a better self image and stronger sense of confidence. There is a definite correlation between membership and involvement with having a mission and purpose.
Students who are consistent in being of service to others have a broader awareness of the world around them and a better understanding of “big picture issues” such as preparing for college and thinking about a career.
A+ Academic Coaching supports students’ involvement and leadership in very direct ways. In both Albuquerque and Santa Fe, we sponsor a youth chapter for Habitat for Humanity; it is called Youth United. We are also involved in a community mentoring program called Boys to Men New Mexico, in which a community of trustworthy adults mentor a community of boys.
For more information on who we are, and how we help our community, visit us at !
History Tutor in Albuqueruqe and Santa Fe
History Tutor
A very popular proverb is that “History repeats itself.” Many students of history would likely agree, but understanding the dynamics, complexities and outcomes of historical events can be challenging for some students. History is about so much more than dates, times and significant figures. Many people would have a difficult time explaining the correlation between the Code of Hammurabi, the Justinian Code and their impact on modern law.
One solution when students are struggling with history or social studies is to pair them with a knowledgeable and competent history tutor who can simplify, yet bring to life, the important events and personages of the past. The real key to history is not memorization but understanding how societies evolved and thrived, as well as the lessons to be learned when they failed.
A+ Academic Coaching has several outstanding history tutors who can truly help students understand the complexities of history and assist students in attaining the goals for grades that they desire.
Math And Science Homework Tips
Math and Science Homework Tips
Most people know that the brain is organized in different ways.We are all familiar with the terms “left brain” and “right brain.” This explains why some students are good with reading and writing, while other students excel in mathematics.
Students who struggle with math and science can be taught to have success in these sometimes daunting subjects. While both might seem like a foreign language because of their jargon and abstract concepts, success in math and science creates strong analytical skills and the ability to focus and concentrate.
Here are a few tips to help your child with their math and science homework:
Math basics
Your child should be able to give basic math answers, such as multiplication tables, in less than three seconds. Such ability requires repetitive learning techniques like flashcards and drills. If your child has difficulty learning certain facts, have them use objects to solve the problem.
Writing Neatly
Many math errors can be traced back to messy writing. Improve your child’s number-writing skills by having them trace over neatly-written numbers. The use of graph paper will help them keep problems aligned.
Math as Part of Daily Life
Understanding how important math is in real-life situations will encourage your child to study. Ask them to help you design a garden, double a recipe, figure out a tip, or add up totals at the store.
For more information and other great tips subscribe to our newsletter!